Hair oiling is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic hair care, but many people either over-oil or skip it entirely. Here's a practical guide.
The general rule
For most hair types, 2–3 times a week is enough to nourish the scalp and strengthen hair without weighing it down or clogging the scalp.
How long to leave it in
At minimum, leave oil in for 30 minutes before washing. Many people prefer applying it the night before and washing it out in the morning for deeper absorption.
Signs you're oiling too much or too little
An oily scalp between washes, or difficulty rinsing oil out fully, can mean you're using too much. Persistent dryness or flaking can mean you need to oil more consistently, not less.
Application technique
Warm the oil slightly, part your hair into sections, and massage gently into the scalp in circular motions to support circulation.
This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice.